Friday, November 7, 2014

iHeartMedia/Portland has announced that Dave Hill has been named VP/Programming for the cluster.

The move is effective December 1, 2014.

Hill will oversee all programming operations for Portland's nine-station cluster. He will join iHeartMedia Portland from Hearst Broadcasting in Baltimore, Maryland, where he served as Operations Manager for four stations since 2002.

He also previously served as Program Director and midday talent for WQBK in Albany, New York and WMRQ in Hartford, Connecticut.

"After a year of consistent ratings growth at iHeartMedia Portland, I am pleased to have Dave Hill as my partner and new Vice President of Programming," said Robert Dove, Market President, iHeartMedia Portland. "Dave brings with him a 12 year track record of success in Baltimore and I am sure he will continue build on the forward trajectory of our strong AM and FM brands in Portland."

"We have been wanting to recruit Dave to our team for quite some time, the brands he has managed in Baltimore have been industry leaders in their formats," said Brad Hardin, Executive Vice President of Programming, iHeartMedia. "We are very excited to have him join iHeartMedia and grow our Portland cluster."

Radio One launched another Classic Hip-Hop station. This time in Philadelphia on WPHI 107.9 FM, using the Boom branding.

The station had been mainstream urban. A straff of nine were let go, including morning hosts Laiya St. Clair and Shamara.

"We take the loss of employees seriously," said Shawneen Thompson, General Manager, Radio One. "We are working to ensure all of our impacted employees are transitioned with the dignity and respect they deserve."

Thompson also stated, "Though disappointed by this unfortunate, but necessary decision, we are excited about our future with Boom 107.9 FM."

WPHI 107.9 FM (7.8Kw) 60dBu Cvoerage

The new Classic Hip-Hop format not only strengthens Radio One's position as an urban music leader, but is expected to take Philadelphia by storm. The expansion of the Boom brand comes on the cusp of Radio One successfully launching Boom 92 FM in Houston, TX in October.

AC/DC drummer Phil Rudd is no longer facing a charge of hiring a hitman to carry out two killings, according to Billboard which cited New Zealand media reports.

Rudd's legal counsel Paul Mabey said the most serious charge against the 60-year-old, of attempting to procure a murder, has been withdrawn by NZ police following consultation with the Tauranga crown solicitor (similar to a district attorney in the U.S.) and senior police on Friday (Nov. 7).

"The charge alleging an Attempt to Procure Murder should never have been laid. The Crown Solicitor's opinion was not sought. The charge is now withdrawn -- within 24 hours of Mr Rudd's first appearance in Court," Mabey said in a statement.

The other charges of threatening to kill and possession of methamphetamines and cannabis remain. Rudd will defend the charge of threatening to kill, Mabey said, adding that the drug possession charges are minor.

Rudd was arrested at his home in Tauranga, New Zealand, on Thursday morning and received bail following a court appearance on Thursday afternoon local time.

Saga Communications today reported net operating revenue increased 4.4% to $34.4 million for the quarter ended September 30, 2014 compared to $32.9 million for the same period last year.

Station operating expense was $26.4 million (station operating expense includes depreciation and amortization attributable to the stations) compared to $23.6 million for the same period last year. The $2.8 million increase was primarily due to an accrual attributable to the Company's expectations of entering into license agreements in the fourth quarter of 2014 which are currently under negotiation.

Operating income from continuing operations was $5.7 million. Net income for the period was $3.3 million ($0.56 per fully diluted share) and free cash flow was $4.9 million.

Net operating revenue for the period ended September 30, 2014 increased 2.0% to $97.6 million compared to $95.7 million for the same period last year. Operating income from continuing operations was $18.2 million. Net income for the period was $10.5 million ($1.80 per fully diluted share) and free cash flow was $14.3 million. Station operating expense was $72.8 million (station operating expense includes depreciation and amortization attributable to the stations).

SAG-AFTRA has unionized the staff at KNBR 680 AM /1050 AM (San Mateo) in San Francisco, which has voted to recognize SAG-AFTRA as its bargaining unit.

The union will represent more than 35 media professionals who host, report, produce, edit and coordinate content for the two sports stations. Ballots were mailed out on Oct. 22 and counted Thursday at the National Labor Relations Board Region 19 office.

SAG-AFTRA said it plans to negotiate a first contract with the station’s owner, Cumulus Media.

In a salute to our military past and present, Westwood One Sports will air two special broadcasts during Veterans Day week.

On Monday, November 10, 2014, Westwood One’s Monday Night Football broadcast of the Carolina Panthers at Philadelphia Eagles game will air its live pregame and halftime shows from aboard the brand new naval ship USS America, docked in San Diego Harbor. Westwood One Sports’ pregame and halftime host Jim Gray will be joined onboard the ship by Pro Football Hall of Famer Eric Dickerson. In addition, the broadcast will feature Monday Night Football weekly contributors Tom Brady and Larry Fitzgerald. Brady, Fitzgerald, and Dickerson will field football questions from the sailors during the broadcast. Pregame coverage begins at 7:45 pm ET. Kevin Harlan and Boomer Esiason will call all the game action from Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia.

USS America (LHA 6) is the first ship of the America-class amphibious assault ship class and the fourth ship to bear the name America. Commissioned on October 11, 2014, the ship acts as the flagship on an expeditionary strike group or amphibious ready group. America is homeported in San Diego, California.

Then, on Friday, November 14, 2014, Westwood One will air the inaugural Quicken Loans Veterans Classic from the campus of the US Naval Academy. The college basketball doubleheader—featuring Tennessee vs. #15 VCU and #18 Michigan State at Navy—tips off Westwood One’s season-long coverage. John Sadak and Hall of Fame coach John Thompson will deliver all the action from Alumni Hall, beginning at 6:15 pm ET.

“We are honored to have the opportunity to broadcast these programs from the USS America and the Naval Academy,” said Howard Deneroff, EVP/Executive Producer, Westwood One Sports. “We have tremendous appreciation for our military and we know that many of them are huge sports fans. We look forward to sharing these events with them in person and with our listeners nationwide.”

Westwood One’s broadcast of Monday Night Football can be heard on more than 500 radio stations nationwide, as well as on SiriusXM satellite radio, NFL.com/Audiopass, and NFL Mobile from Verizon.

Westwood One’s NCAA Basketball coverage can be heard on more than 250 radio stations nationwide, streamed online for free at westwoodonesports.com, and via the TuneIn online and mobile app.

"We are pleased to announce solid results in the third quarter in line with guidance. In the third quarter, pro forma net revenue grew 7.1%, with strength across both our Local Advertising and Other Media & Entertainment segments. We continue to be pleased with the performance that has been delivered by our diversified revenue strategy," commented Steven Price, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Townsquare Media, Inc.

Quarter Ended September 30, 2014 Compared to the Quarter Ended September 30, 2013

On an actual basis, net revenue increased $27.9 million, or 41.7%, to $94.7 million, compared to $66.9 million in the same period last year. Local Advertising net revenue increased $21.4 million, or 37.1%, to $79.0 million, and Other Media and Entertainment net revenue increased $6.5 million, or 70.5%, to $15.8 million. These increases were primarily attributable to the acquisitions made during the second half of 2013, including certain assets of Peak II Holding, LLC, Cumulus Media Inc. and certain live events.

Pro forma for completed material acquisitions, net revenue increased $6.3 million, or 7.1%, to $94.7 million, compared to $88.5 million in the same period last year. Local Advertising pro forma net revenue increased $1.5 million, or 1.9%, to $79.0 million.

CBS News and CBS Interactive today launched CBSN, the first digital streaming news network that will allow Internet-connected consumers to watch live, anchored news coverage on their connected TV and other devices. At launch, the network is available 24/7 and makes all of the resources of CBS News available directly on digital platforms with live, anchored coverage 15 hours each weekday.

Les Moonves

“CBSN is an important example of how CBS is able to leverage the unique strengths, talent and competitive advantages of its businesses to create exciting, highly competitive new services that meet evolving audience preferences for content consumption,” said Leslie Moonves, President and CEO, CBS Corporation. “There’s a tremendous opportunity on these platforms for a true round-the-clock newscast. We’re confident this service will appeal to both traditional news consumers and a whole new set of viewers.”

CBSN will be available on CBSNews.com and its mobile website, key connected TV devices including Amazon Fire TV, Roku players and Roku TV™, and others, as well as the newly launched CBS News app for Windows 8/8.1 and Windows Phone 8/8.1 available through the Windows Store and Windows Phone Store. CBSN will also be available on the CBS News apps for Android and other leading platforms before the end of the year.

The network features a 60-minute format delivering live, updated news content from 9:00 AM - midnight ET every weekday at launch, and it takes advantage of the interactivity of digital platforms through a unique video player and on-screen interface. It gives viewers the full flexibility within each hour to control what they watch and when they watch it via DVR-like functionality that allows them to watch previous segments and jump back into live programming seamlessly and across devices.

Features of the network will include:

Live, anchored coverage from 9:00 AM - midnight ET every weekday;

Simulcasts of CBS News special reports for breaking news;

Additional content from a range of CBS sources including CBS News, CBS affiliate stations, CNET, CBSSports.com, Entertainment Tonight and more

David Rhodes

“CBSN gives audiences a new window on our original reporting – we’ll make it possible to see CBS News anytime, anywhere,” said David Rhodes, President, CBS News. “We are making an important investment in quality news coverage on any device.”

“CBSN demonstrates our continued advancement in the digital space, as we extend to new platforms and a wider audience,” said Jim Lanzone, President and CEO, CBS Interactive. “We are developing original content exclusively for online, connected platforms in a true interactive format that viewers can control, allowing them to lean back or lean in to the segments and stories that interest them.”

CBSN will be an ad-supported network across all platforms. Inaugural sponsors include Microsoft and Amazon. Other advertisers will also run in the service on all devices.

The live, linear stream will be led by both veteran and new CBS News correspondents.

Boston Herald Radio has announced the addition of WCRN 830 AM as an affiliated for its 'Morning Meeting" radio show weekdays 10a to Noon.

The show is hosted by veteran TV reporter Jaclyn Cashman and the Herald’s chief political reporter Hillary Chabot.

WCRN boasts a powerful 50,000-watt stick that reaches a number of states. Inside Route 128, it has been a popular alternative for talk radio listeners who have struggled to receive other AM signals.

Cashman, who has worked in Worcester, has long been advocating for a Herald Radio presence west of Interstate 495: “Central Mass. is dear to my heart. I got my feet wet working in media at Channel 3. I am thrilled to bring my political analysis back to Worcester.”

WCRN General Manager Kurt Carberry sees the partnership as a natural fit, saying, “Broadcasting Boston Herald Radio to our WCRN audience gives our listeners a unique opportunity to explore a headline story and hear what the reporter or columnist was feeling, and then discuss emotions and reactions, live, on air.”

As the media landscape keeps shifting, innovative products and partnerships are the way of the future, and Carberry said he believes the radio-newspaper synergy will yield fascinating results.

“This is a better way to report the news. Beyond headlines, interaction that touches on the human experience that comes from reporting,” he said. “We all benefit from this relationship, our audience, and the Herald’s readership. This is true interactive media, and it’s a natural.”

Southern California Broadcasters Association President Thom Callahan shares his vision of a Brave New World for Radio in 2015. This latest “Thought Leader” media post, entitled “Brave New World for Radio” is at www.scba.com. In it, he describes a series of breakthrough initiatives that significantly change the dynamics of Broadcast Radio and portray a reenergized industry that embraces digital audience measurement, the FM chip in cellphones, its continued audience growth, and more sophisticated ROI research that establishes Radio as a consumer driven medium.

“We wrote Brave New World for Radio to reawaken our industry to the perfect storm of very solid positive developments coming our way in 2015.” said SCBA President Thom Callahan. “The launch of real audio digital measurement for Radio, our new value model for Broadcast Radio which ties consumers to Radio’s direct influence to purchase, and our continued positive listenership trends, all point to a brilliant 2015 ahead.”

Brave New World was written as a look back on 2015 before it begins with a “back to the future” approach. This new SCBA Thought Leader post describes actual industry developments that are all on track to become reality in early 2015 and which will impact the Radio industry from a technological, business, and, most of all, a profound psychological basis. Optimistic and motivational in tone, this new media post uses documented industry initiatives to jumpstart a new, bolder value proposition for Radio that is based on facts, solid audience measurement and consumer behavior.

“We are not predicting the future but rather looking back on 2015 as a defining and redefining year for Broadcast Radio as the coming reality of real audio digital measurement, the FM chip, the repurposing and resurgence of AM Radio, and significant proof of Radio’s ROI, all quickly became the “new normal” for our great industry,” said Callahan.

Longtime San Diego radio/television broadcaster Larry Himmel has died from brain cancer at the age of 68.

Himmel reported on weather or sports for years for KFMB-TV but was known by so many for his ability to bring memorable stories about San Diego.

Former colleagues describe him as witty, funny, insightful, genuine and an iconic San Diego personality.

“What you see on screen, that’s exactly who he is off camera,” colleague Hank Bauer said in a video tribute.

He started his career on radio in 1969 as night DJ at WSIV-AM in Pekin, IL, and later hosted at WJOB-AM in Hammond, IN and CJOM in Detroit-Windsor. He moved to San Diego and hosted for six years at KGB-FM and later at KFMB-FM (B100), moving into TV.

Himmel started as a feature TV reporter in San Diego in 1979. Part of that long television career was spent at KNSD. He also produced a half-hour comedy show for years.

Larry's talent transcended all subject matters, said NBC 7's Marianne Kushi who once worked with Himmel.

"He was not the 'Jack of All Trades', he was the master of all of them," Kushi said. "He found the little stories, those little gems of San Diego and shared them with us."

Born on Long Island, he started his radio career at WDGC-Downers Grove, Illinois when he was 14 years old. Eventually relocating to the L.A. area, Scott earned a B.A. in radio/tv/film from Cal State University Northridge in 1981. After graduation, Scott worked in the Antelope Valley and was the overnight news anchor at “Money Radio,” KMNY, along with Metro Traffic. His show at KFI was described as “libberservatism – somewhere between hard-line conservatives and hard-end liberals.”

Though his cancer was aggressive, Baker’s family did not expect to lose him so soon.

“He loved us until the last minute,” his wife, Kelly Baker, said Thursday. While losing him is difficult, she said, “I had him for 14 years, and I’d do it all over again if it ended the same way.”

Baker was a DJ with country music station KXDD 104.1 FM. In his honor, the station will be playing old clips of Baker on the air through today.

“It’s a huge loss for this community and his family,” said Kelly Gasseling, station manager at KXDD. “He had an 8-year-old son that adored him, still does, and a 2-year-old little girl that had her daddy wrapped around her finger.”

Thursday, November 6, 2014

WRKO 680 AM Talk Host and Boston Herald columnist Howie Carr was hospitalized after a car crash Wednesday on the Mass Pike near the Allston-Brighton tolls but is now heading home and feeling fine, his wife reports.

Carr suffered minor injuries, police said, in the 1:03 p.m. two-car crash in the westbound lane of Interstate 90. Carr was the only person taken to the hospital from the crash scene, police add.

The WRKO talk show host was taken to Massachusetts General Hospital, police report. He was released last night and.

“Howie is being sent home and we want to thank everyone for their support,” Kathy Carr added.

WRKO’s Phil Zachary, vice president for Entercom Boston, released a statement announcing Carr would not be on the air for a while.

“I’m sad to report our good friend and colleague Howie Carr was injured today in an auto accident. Those of us who know, love and respect Howie and his work recognize what an important day Tuesday was for him and why he toiled through the night to compose his columns and prepare for the post-election radio show today,” Zachary wrote.

“The Republican surge that swept across America was something Howie predicted and so urgently wanted to share with each of you on the air throughout the week. However, as a precaution, Howie will remain off the air and under observation to ensure a full recovery with no complications.

Cumulus Media has announced that Congressman Mike Rogers will appear three times daily on radio stations nationwide beginning January 5 when his “Something to Think About” segments begin providing listeners with unique perspective from the outgoing Chairman of the House Intelligence Committee and former FBI agent.

“From the highest level national security discussion to the most inspiring American success story, I have seen it. I am excited to bring these stories to life. They are humorous, compelling, moving and most of all these stories will give us something to think about,” said Chairman Mike Rogers.

Chairman Rogers spent more than a decade at the intersection of the topics and events that shape Americans’ lives, where he's been privy to perspectives available only to a select few in senior levels of government and national security. “Something to Think About” will play an important role helping Americans better understand critical issues that impact their daily lives. Rogers will address the most talked about issues of the day and highlight smaller stories illuminating the concept of American exceptionalism.

“Something to Think About” will debut on radio stations coast to coast with syndication through the Westwood One distribution division of Cumulus. These daily vignettes are Rogers’s introduction to a broader platform with Cumulus. Cumulus announced earlier this year that Chairman Rogers would join the nation’s largest talk radio platform after the conclusion of his seventh term representing Michigan in Congress at the end of the year.

Cumulus announces that Bob Frantz joins WLQR 106.5 FM The Ticket as the weekday 3:00 p.m.-5:00 p.m. sports talk show host. Bob worked in Toledo previously as the WSPD 1370 AM morning show host and in Cleveland at WTAM 1100 AM.

Frantz debuts on 106.5 The Ticket today.

Andy Stuart, Regional Vice President & Market Manager for Cumulus Toledo said: “Bob is a great sports talk talent and we are so pleased to have him join our roster of great talent-driven stations. He will bring a new level of quality sports talk to Northwest Ohio that the audience will find very engaging.”

Bill Michaels, Program Director for 106.5 The Ticket said: “"Bob will be a huge edition to SportsRadio 106.5 The Ticket. Bob's past experience in the market and passion for sports make for a perfect winning formula."

Frantz said: “I cannot begin to describe how excited I am to renew acquaintances with my Toledo friends and family. This is such a unique sports town, where fans of Ohio teams and fans of Michigan teams all come together to battle for bragging rights in just about everything...and that's what sports talk is all about! We are going to have a blast!"

Cumulus has announced that Tim Graves will join its Toledo operations as Assistant Program Director of Classic Hits 93.5 WRQN 93.5 FN and HotAC WWWM 105.1 FM Star 105 beginning November 14.

He will also host Middays live on Star 105. Graves returns to Cumulus from KDAT/KRQN in Cedar Rapids, Iowa (former Cumulus stations sold to Townsquare last year). Prior to that, he was on air at KRTI in Newton/Des Moines, Iowa and at KIOA/KAZR in Des Moines.

Graves said: "I'm more than excited to be back with Cumulus! And to be able to join the team in Toledo is awesome! I look forward to working with OM Mark Elliott to continue to grow these great stations. I want to thank Mark, John Dickey, Mike McVay and Emily Boldon for this great opportunity."

Mark Elliott, Operations Manager for WRQN/WWWM said: “I’m excited to add another great player to the Toledo team. This shows the commitment Cumulus is making to bringing great radio to Toledo listeners.”

N/T WHBC 1480 AM sports director Sam Bourquin has left the station. Bourquin has not been heard on air since his afternoon-drive show Oct. 24, according to indeonline.com.

Bourquin, who had the 3-to-7 p.m. weekday slot on WHBC, was supposed to join Pam Cook and Gary Rivers on the station’s morning show starting Oct. 27. Instead, Bourquin called off sick every day last week.

In a conversation Tuesday, WHBC Market Manager Larry Gawthrop said moving Bourquin to mornings and adding Roda to afternoons was “a decision to strengthen both drive-time spots.”

In a statement Wednesday, WHBC said, “After much consideration, Sam Bourquin has decided not to accept his position with Canton’s Morning News, and has chosen to explore other opportunities. This is a mutually agreed upon separation between Digity Canton dba WHBC and Sam Bourquin. We thank Sam for his years of broadcast service and wish him the best.”

A longtime WHBC employee, Bourquin became sports director in 2007 following the retirement of Jim Johnson. In addition to his afternoon show, he was the primary play-by-play announcer for high-school football and basketball.

Greater Media/Charlotte has announced WLNK 107.9 FM / The Link Program Director Anthony Michaels has resigned to pursue other career opportunities.

PD for the past three years, Michaels spent nine years at the station as an on-air personality as well as held interim PD duties.

"I want to thank Anthony for all he has done for WLNK and wish him well in the future," said Greater Media Charlotte Vice President and Market Manager Rick Feinblatt. The station will begin a search for a new program director for the station immediately.

In the interim, Greater Media Charlotte Marketing Director Matt Dubois will serve as the point person for WLNK programming-related matters. In addition, WBT AM/FM Program Director Jason Furst, who has past program director experience at music stations, will handle WLNK-FM's music.

CBS on Wednesday reported third-quarter earnings of $3.03 cents per share on $3.37 billion in revenue, beating Wall Street's expectations due in part to political advertising and Thursday Night Football.

According to The Hollywood Reporter, CBS was expected to earn 73 cents per share on revenue of $3.32 billion. The huge discrepancy in the per-share earnings are owed to a $1.56 billion gain recognized in connection with the company's split-off of its billboard business, Outdoor Americas. When adjusted for that event, CBS beat per-per-share earnings expectations by a penny.

Despite the fairly strong report, CBS acknowledged "softness in the overall advertising marketplace" and, in doing so, echoed a concern this earnings season among analysts and media executives. So far this week, for example, Discovery Communications and 21st Century Fox each reported sluggishness in TV ad sales.

Among the conglomerate's reporting segments, local broadcasting fared best in terms of revenue, which was up 6 percent to $680 million. Cable Networks was next, with a gain of 5 percent to $624 million. Entertainment, which is made up of the CBS TV network and studios as well as the distribution group, interactive and CBS Films, was up 1 percent to $1.91 billion. Publishing dropped to $199 million from $224 million.

Speaking to analysts on the company’s third quarter earnings call, CBS Chief Executive Leslie Moonves said “fairly definitively” Showtime will have such an “over-the-top” Web offering in 2015, according to The Wall Street Journal.

CBS has already launched such a service for its broadcast network and on Thursday it will debut a streaming news service called CBSN.

CBS is anticipating a battle with satellite operator Dish Network Corp. as the companies renegotiate their carriage contract, which expires at the end of this month. Dish Chairman Charlie Ergen said Tuesday that the CBS broadcast network’s new online service “makes that product less interesting” for pay-TV operators because “customers have a choice to get it somewhere else.”

CBS’s Mr. Moonves, noting that the network’s ratings are up this season, sounded confident about the Dish situation. “We’re determined to get paid fair value for our programming. We know how to get this done and rest assured we will,” he said.

Read More Now (Paywall)
During Wednesday's Conference Call with analysts, Moonves reported a "strong"quarter for local TV and radio.

"In local, both our television and radio stations had very strong quarters. On the television side, political spending, retrans and NFL sales all contributed to double-digit third quarter growth, and Thursday Night Football has given a significant lift to our late local news here in the third and fourth quarter. All but one of our games featured teams from our O&O markets, resulting in late news ratings that were 20% higher in our key news demos -- demo of adults 25 to 54.

"Radio also had a strong quarter as we continue to focus on our big market strategy. Last month, we made an agreement with the Beasley Broadcast Group to swap 14 stations for 5 stations, exiting some of our midsized markets while building our presence in Philadelphia and Miami. We own television duopolies in both of these major markets, meaning our new radio stations are a terrific complement to our existing local portfolios.

"In Local Broadcasting, third quarter revenue of $680 million was up 6%, driven by strong political spending as well as higher affiliate and subscription fees. TV stations were up 10% while radio was up 2%."

News Corp. reported a 4% increase in its revenue for the most recent quarter, with a boost from its book publishing and digital real estate and education segments, according to Variety.

But advertising revenue for its newspapers continued to fall in its fiscal first quarter 2015.

Overall, the company reported revenues of $2.15 billion, from $2.07 billion a year earlier.

Net income was $65 million, compared to $27 million in the same period a year earlier. That was 11 cents per share, compared to 3 cents a year earlier.

“The past quarter demonstrates that our strategy to develop the new News for long-term growth is firmly on track,” said the company’s chief executive Robert Thomson.

The company, owner of the Wall Street Journal, said that it had seen some circulation gains at the paper.

In a call with analysts, Thomson said they have seen some recovery in print advertising at the Journal, particularly in ads from the financial and technology sector.

Nevertheless, revenue in the news and information services division fell 3% to $1.45 billion in the most recent quarter, while other divisions saw increases. Total advertising revenues in that segment dropped 7%.

The Country Music Association Awards may have looked like The Miranda Lambert Show for most of the night on Wednesday, but, according to The Washington Post, it was Nashville hitmaker Luke Bryan who took home the biggest honor as Entertainer of the Year.

Bryan, now really the most powerful artist in the genre, became emotional as he accepted the prize on stage at the CMAs — his voice quavering as he thanked his family. And hoisting the trophy, he wrapped up his speech with his signature, blinding-white smile and the words: “We’re gonna have a good time tonight.”

Lambert certainly did, continuing her award-show reign by landing four wins — the most in the room — out of a field-leading nine nominations.

For the fifth straight time, she was named Female Vocalist of the Year. She also won Vocal Event of the Year (for “We Were Us” with Keith Urban); Single of the Year (for the reflective “Automatic”); and Album of the Year (for the dynamic “Platinum”).

The night’s biggest surprise: Newcomer Kacey Musgraves, who grew up in the same East Texas area as Lambert, picked up a win for Song of the Year for her critically acclaimed, controversial single “Follow Your Arrow.”

Why? Because Francesa maintains that YES dumped him for Kay not because of Francesa's sympathetic interview with Alex Rodriguez, as a caller suggested, but because YES (which stands for Yankees Entertainment and Sports) knew it could control the content of Kay and co-host Don La Greca's show and not Francesa's.

Count how many times Kay, one of the Yankees' TV voices uses "liar" or "lying" in referring to Francesa.

Frank Mankiewicz, who came from a family of Hollywood luminaries but forged his own path in Washington politics and media, serving as a top aide to presidential candidates Robert F. Kennedy and George S. McGovern, as an ambitious president of National Public Radio and as a rainmaker at a prominent public relations firm, died Oct. 23 at a Washington hospital.

Mr. Mankiewicz was a veteran of the Battle of the Bulge and, in a career spanning six decades, a lawyer, journalist, author, congressional candidate and player in liberal Democratic politics.

Mankiewicz took over National Public Radio in 1977. The outfit was so obscure at the time that he had never listened to a broadcast, he said, and his mandate was to use his political connections and publicity skill to raise the organization’s profile.

During his six years at the helm, the NPR news department more than doubled and listenership nearly tripled. He helped start the popular program “Morning Edition” in 1979; opened the first overseas bureau, in London; and used his access to top Democratic lawmakers such as Senate Majority Leader Robert C. Byrd (W.Va.) to obtain gavel-to-gavel radio coverage of important hearings.

Such initiatives brought the network prestige and acclaim, but NPR couldn’t keep pace financially with the aggressive growth. Meanwhile, the Reagan administration moved in the early 1980s to cut public broadcasting funding, spurring Mr. Mankiewicz to make a then-startling push for commercial underwriting.

Mankiewicz’s tenure ended with a $5.8 million deficit, which nearly pushed NPR into bankruptcy before the Corporation for Public Broadcasting granted a last-minute funding reprieve.

The crisis resulted in the decentralization of future funding, with local stations receiving more money and greater control over programming. Mr. Mankiewicz had fervent supporters and detractors, but he was generally credited with helping to transform the network into a vastly more influential news operation.

In 1896...Jim Jordan, the radio comedian who portrayed Fibber McGee, was born.

Jim & Marian as Fibber McGee & Molly

Jim and his wife Marian Jordan got their major break in radio while performing in Chicago in 1924; Jim said he could give a better performance than the singers they were listening to on the radio, and his brother Byron bet $10 that Jim couldn't do it. By the end of the evening, Jim and Marian had their first radio contract, at $10 per show for 26 weeks as The O'Henry Twins, sponsored by Oh Henry! candy.

In 1988, he died at the age of 91 at the Beverly Hills Medical Center from a blood clot in his brain, caused by a fall at his home

In 1935…Edwin H. Armstrong announced his development of FM broadcasting after conducting the first large-scale field tests of his new radio technology at RCA's facilities on the 85th floor of the Empire State Building from May 1934 until October 1935. In 1937, Armstrong financed construction of the first FM radio station, W2XMN, a 40-kilowatt broadcaster in Alpine, New Jersey.

Edwin H. Armstrong

The signal (at 42.8 MHz) could be heard clearly 100 miles (160 km) away, despite the use of less power than an AM radio station.

RCA began to lobby for a change in the law or FCC regulations that would prevent FM radios from becoming dominant (David Sarnoff was looing to protest his stations on the AM band) . By June 1945, the RCA had pushed the FCC hard on the allocation of electromagnetic frequencies for the fledgling television industry. Although they denied wrongdoing, David Sarnoff and RCA managed to get the FCC to move the FM radio spectrum from 42–50 MHz, to 88–108 MHz, while getting new low-powered community television stations allocated to a new Channel 1 in the 44-50 MHz range.

Furthermore, RCA also claimed invention of FM radio and won its own patent on the technology. A patent fight between RCA and Armstrong ensued. RCA's momentous victory in the courts left Armstrong unable to claim royalties on any FM receivers, including televisions, which were sold in the United States. The costly legal battles brought ruin to Armstrong, by then almost penniless and emotionally distraught. Eventually, after Armstrong's death, many of the lawsuits were decided or settled in his favor, greatly enriching his estate and heirs. But the decisions came too late for Armstrong himself to enjoy his legal vindication.

It took decades following Armstrong's death for FM broadcasting to meet and surpass the saturation of the AM band, and longer still for FM radio to become profitable for broadcasters. Two developments made a difference in the 1960s. One was the development of true stereophonic broadcasting on FM by General Electric, which resulted in the approval of an FM stereo broadcast standard by the FCC in 1961, and the conversion of hundreds of stations to stereo within a few yearsIn 1945...the HUAC (House Un-American Activities Committee) began an investigation of 7 radio commentators. The committee considered its duty to purge any influences of communism from America.

Nat D. Williams

In 1957...Elvis visits radio station WDIA in Memphis and meets two of his idols, Little Junior Parker and Bobby Bland.

WDIA went on the air June 7, 1947, from studios on Union Avenue. The owners, John Pepper and Dick Ferguson, were both white and the format was a mix of country and western and light pop. The station did not do well.

Nat D. Williams, a syndicated columnist and high-school teacher, started Tan Town Jubilee in October 1948. This was the first radio program in the United States to specifically target black listeners, and WDIA soon became the number-2 station in Memphis. After a switch to all-black programming, WDIA was the city's top station.

Elvis At WDIA At Revue 1956

In June 1954 WDIA was licensed to increase its power to 50,000 watts-Day, 5Kw-Night. Its powerful signal reached down into the Mississippi Delta’s dense African-American population and was heard from the Missouri Bootheel to the Gulf coast. As a result WDIA was able to reach 10% of the African-American population in United States.

Future WJLB strong jock herself, Martha Jean “The Queen” Steinberg became Princess Premium Stuff. Ernest Brazzell gave crop advice and Robert Thomas became a DJ named “Honeyboy” after he won a city-wide amateur competition. Among other notable personalities were Maurice "Hot Rod" Hulbert, Theo "Bless My Bones" Wade, and Ford Nelson, who remains an active gospel DJ on WDIA in 2013.

Many music legends got their start at WDIA, including B.B. King and Rufus Thomas. Elvis Presley was greatly influenced by the station.

In 1976...The hot 100..It was Steve Miller's turn in the spotlight as his new single "Rock 'N Me" reached #1. "Disco Duck" by Rick Dees was waddling behind while Gordon Lightfoot made a move with "The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald". Chicago's #1 smash "If You Leave Me Now" fell to #4 and the resurgent Bee Gees were up to #5 with another hit--"Love So Right".

The rest of an excellent Top 10: The Captain & Tennille's "Muskrat Love", Hall & Oates were stuck at #7 with the very underrated "She's Gone", Rod Stewart was on fire again, moving from 22-8 with "Tonight's the Night (Gonna' Be Alright)", Heart crept up with their first Top 10 "Magic Man" while the Commodores entered the list with "Just To Be Close to You".

In 1976...The Album Chart..Songs in the Key of Life was #1 for the fourth week for Stevie Wonder. Spirit by Earth, Wind & Fire remained #2 while Led Zeppelin made a great debut at #3 with the Soundtrack From "The Song Remains the Same". The Steve Miller Band slipped with Fly Like An Eagle and Peter Frampton was still in the Top 5 with Frampton Comes Alive!

The rest of the Top 10: a self-titled album by a group called Boston moved from 13-6 in its 7th week, Heart's Dreamboat Annie was stalled at #7, Chicago X, their greatest hits package, was #8, the Bee Gees edged up with Children of the World and Lynyrd Skynyrd joined the group with One More From the Road.

Stagg's radio career began in Birmingham (on WYDE AM). From there, it was on to Philadelphia (on WBIG), San Francisco (on KYA), and Milwaukee (on WOKY) before his stint at KYW, Cleveland.

Jim Stragg-1966

In 1965, KYW program director Ken Draper moved to WCFL to assume the same duties. Stagg and many other station employees, both on and off air, including Dick Orkin, Jim Runyon and Jerry G. (Bishop) eagerly moved from KYW in Cleveland to WCFL in Chicago.

As his radio career wound down, Stagg hosted innovative talk and music shows on WMAQ-AM.

At WCFL, the "Voice of Labor", Stagg did the afternoon drive shift. He referred to the studio call-in line as the "Stagg Line" and produced a feature titled "Stagg's Starbeat" – in-depth, provocative, and insightful interviews with local, national and international music celebrities. Staggs interviewed nearly every major rock star of the 1960s, including Neil Diamond, Ray Charles, Frank Sinatra, The Rolling Stones, the Supremes, The Monkees, and Simon & Garfunkel.

Jim became the Chicago chairman of Let Us Vote (LUV), a youth campaign which began in late 1968 to establish the minimum voting age as 18 in all states. Joey Bishop was honorary national chairman and songwriters Tommy Boyce and Bobby Hart contributed a campaign song. Everyone's efforts resulted in the Twenty-sixth Amendment to the United States Constitution being ratified in 1971.

Staggs eschewed the flashy theatrics of other Top-40 radio hosts in favor a straightforward rock and roll show that kept the focus on the music. His close-of-program line echos that: "Music is my business. I hope my business was your pleasure."

Wednesday, November 5, 2014

There are thousands of families in the tri-state area that need the help provided by WMGK 102.9 FM’s 13th Annual John DeBella Turkey Drop more than ever this year.

WMGK’s partner in the Turkey Drop, City Team Philadelphia, have seen a record number of sign-ups for holiday meal assistance this year.

John DeBella

On Tuesday, November 25 from 6am to 9am, Classic Rock WMGK’s morning host, John DeBella, will broadcast live and accept monetary and turkey donations during this year’s Turkey Drop at Love Park (16th & JFK). The John DeBella Turkey Drop is the largest, one day food gathering event in Philadelphia. Last year’s event raised over 9,000 turkeys. The Turkey Drop benefits City Team Philadelphia, an organization that provides food and services to less fortunate individuals, families, shelters and food groups in the tri-state.

While DeBella is broadcasting from Love Park, members of the MGK on-air staff will be spread around the tri-state area accepting donations at seven Giant Food Store locations in Pennsylvania.

The following will be accepted at all donation locations: frozen turkeys, “free turkey” coupons, cash donations, checks made out to City Team Philadelphia. No food other than turkeys can be accepted. Listeners can make a secure, tax deductible donation online by going to the station’s website.

In addition to providing meals for those that come to their headquarters, City Team also provides turkeys/holiday meals for over 70 agencies and religious organizations. While the holidays are their busiest time, City Team’s services are needed year round. They serve three meals a day, 365 days a year. Last year they served over 83,849 meals to families and individuals in need.

Warner Music Group (WMG) and SoundCloud Tuesday announced that WMG is the first major music group to forge a partnership with the audio platform which is currently used by 175 million unique listeners every month.

The deal covers SoundCloud's ad-supported, creator partner program, "On SoundCloud", and its subscription streaming service that is due to launch in the first half of 2015.

The landmark partnership will create new commercial and promotional possibilities for WMG’s roster of established and emerging recording artists as well as songwriters signed to WMG’s music publishing arm, Warner/Chappell Music. Further, the deal includes innovative licensing terms that will provide WMG and its artists greater ability to manage the availability of content, while providing a path towards delivering additional revenue from user-generated mixes and mash-ups of WMG music.

Rob Wiesenthal, Chief Operating Officer/Corporate, WMG, said, “This leading-edge partnership reflects WMG's commitment to establishing new and alternative business models that recognize the value of music for our artists. SoundCloud is a platform built on music innovation and it has a rare ability to drive music discovery while enhancing the connection and collaboration between an artist and their following. Our deal will foster that relationship, while providing a powerful range of income opportunities for WMG’s artists and songwriters.”

Jonathan Dworkin, EVP, Digital Strategy & Business Development, WMG, said, “SoundCloud is a distinctly artist-driven service, with a highly engaged global fan community at its heart. This deal will enable SoundCloud to further develop its product as well as its massive user base, and will deliver multi-tiered monetization while preserving the elements that have made the service so popular. It’s a win for artists, for rights-holders and for consumers.”

Alexander Ljung, SoundCloud’s founder & CEO, said, “We’re thrilled that Warner Music Group will be the first major label to join our new creator partner program. We expect to generate significant revenue for Warner and its artists in the months and years ahead as we roll out an ad-supported offering and subscription service that delivers real value to the industry.”